Lucian's voice echoed with authority as he stood in the middle of his opulent office, his typically composed demeanor marred by the heated conversation crackling through his phone. 

The morning sun filtered through the stained glass windows, casting vibrant colors on the marble floors as he started pacing, frustration evident in every step. The luxury of his office was breathtaking, with elaborate chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling and intricate paintings adorning the walls.

"Do you even realize the gravity of this situation?" His voice was cold and firm, cutting through the air. "I have already made it clear that we cannot afford to make any mistakes in this research, haven't I?"

The person on the other end of the line, an unfortunate lead researcher named Marco, stuttered nervously in response. "I-I understand, Mr. Salvatore. It's just that we encountered some unexpected complications in the latest phase of the research, and we thought that—"

Lucian didn't let him finish. His frustration was palpable, and his words were like icy daggers. "Complications? Unexpected? Marco, I don't want excuses. I want results. You had one job, and that was to ensure this research proceeds flawlessly."

Marco's voice trembled as he tried to defend himself. "Sir, we've been working around the clock, but some variables in the experiments—"

Lucian's patience had worn thin. "Variables? Incompetence, Marco. That's what I see here. You've risked the entire institute's reputation with your inability to handle a simple research project."

There was a pause on the other end as Marco realized the gravity of the situation. His voice quivered as he spoke. "Mr. Salvatore, we're doing everything possible to rectify the situation. We've assembled a new team of experts to—"

Lucian interrupted again, his tone harsh. "You've jeopardized everything we've worked for. I don't want a new team of experts; I want a solution on my desk within the hour, and it better be flawless. Do you understand?"

Marco's response was barely audible, "Yes, sir."

Lucian delivered a final warning with a threat that sent shivers down Marco's spine. "If we lose this project from our hands because of you and your team's incompetence, I assure you, I will hold you personally responsible. You can say goodbye to your career."

Lucian ended the call with an abrupt click, his frustration lingering like a storm cloud. He knew he couldn't let this matter affect the image of his Research Institute, something he had tirelessly worked to build over the years.

Taking a deep breath, he pocketed his phone and sought Kieran. He hoped Kieran's calming presence would soothe his troubled mind, as it had done many times before.

Lucian walked through the lavish halls of the castle, his footsteps echoing against the polished marble floors. The castle was a magnificent structure with grand archways and towering columns. 

The intricate details of the architecture were breathtaking, with every corner adorned with beautiful artwork and sculptures. Lucian’s responsibilities as the High Emissary between the humans and the vampires and the Founder/Director of the Research Institute weighed heavily on his shoulders.

- - -

On the other side of the castle, Sebastian, the trainee butler, tried his best to navigate his challenges. 

Tasked with helping tend to the back gardens, he faced a series of mishaps due to his clumsiness. Cuts from the roses, stumbling over loose stones, and entanglements with trailing vines became the minor obstacles of his day.

Determined to prove his competence as a butler, Sebastian decided to have lunch in the garden while working rather than returning indoors. Finding a stone bench surrounded by blooming roses, he enjoyed the tranquility of the garden's serenity.

The garden was a beautiful oasis, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery stretching as far as the eye could see. The peaceful sound of a nearby fountain completed the idyllic scene.

Unbeknownst to Sebastian, Lucian, lord of the grand castle, had been having a frustrating day. Unable to find Kieran, his childhood friend and current lover, he wandered into the gardens in search of solace. 

As Lucian enters the garden, the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds mask his footsteps. He is unaware of Sebastian's presence as he moves further into the garden.

Engrossed in his lunch and the garden's beauty, Sebastian remains oblivious to Lucian's approach. He takes a bite of his sandwich, savoring the flavors, and lets out a contented sigh.

The sandwich is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, the bread soft and warm. The scent of the blooming roses adds to the experience, making the garden a perfect location for a peaceful lunch.

But fate has a different plan. As Lucian approaches the direction of the stone bench, Sebastian is heading towards while munching on his sandwich, a loose vine catches his attention. Quickly, he pulls Sebastian into himself so he won't trip over.

Sebastian startles at the sudden contact and nearly drops his sandwich. His eyes widen in surprise as he looks up at the person who saved him from an embarrassing fall. At that moment, their eyes meet.

Lucian, usually reserved and composed, finds himself captivated by the innocence in Sebastian's eyes. It's a feeling he hasn't experienced in centuries. The innocence in Sebastian's eyes is striking, reminding him of a time long ago when he was just a young man.

On the other hand, the piercing gaze of the man who saved him struck Sebastian. There's something undeniably powerful about this stranger, something that leaves him both nervous and intrigued. The intensity of Lucian's gaze is disarming, making Sebastian feel like he's the only person in the world.

Time stands still momentarily as they both remain locked in a silent exchange. It's a fleeting encounter, yet it leaves an indelible mark on them. The garden's beauty is a perfect backdrop for this unexpected meeting, the vibrant colors of the flowers and the gentle sound of the fountain heightening the moment.

As Lucian held Sebastian steady, he couldn't help but feel an unexplainable pull toward this young butler-in-training. There was an innocence about Sebastian that he found captivating, a stark contrast to the intrigue and politics he often found himself in.

However, Sebastian remained oblivious to Lucian's true identity. He had never seen the lords of the castle, as Lucian and Kieran had chosen to keep their distance from most of the human staff, especially since the unfortunate incident all those years ago.

Lucian's piercing gaze remained fixed on Sebastian for a moment longer, a sense of curiosity and fascination stirring within him. It was as though fate had orchestrated this chance encounter for a reason.

Finally, as if returning to reality, Lucian released his grip on Sebastian's arm. His voice, firm and cold just moments ago, softened as he spoke. "I apologize for the abruptness. I couldn't stand by and watch you stumble."

His heart racing from the unexpected encounter, Sebastian managed a nervous smile. "Th-thank you, sir. I appreciate your help." Lucian nodded, his eyes still fixed on Sebastian's. "You should be careful in the garden. It can be quite treacherous, especially for someone unfamiliar with its quirks."

Sebastian nodded in understanding, his initial nervousness giving way to a sense of curiosity. "Yes, I've learned that the hard way today." Lucian looked at Sebastian with a raised brow, a hint of amusement flickering as he asked, “The hard way?” 

Sebastian nodded, as a faint hint of a pout passed through his lips, “Yeah, first I came in and was attacked by the tools, then the roses seemed to have decided that they hate me for some reason, then there were those weird patches of randomly damp grass and now this random vine.” 

A very uncharacteristic chuckle leaves Lucian’s lips as he listens to Sebastian’s mindless rambling; even stranger still was that he found the rambling endearing.

“Well, you have had quite a day so far.” He said in a soft voice. A hint of a smile played on his lips. 

As they stood there, an unspoken connection seemed to form between them. It was as if the castle's ancient walls were conspiring to weave their fates together in ways neither could have anticipated.

Just then, a voice called out from behind them. "Lucian!" Both Lucian and Sebastian turned to see Kieran approaching.